Fujikawa (train)

Fujikawa

373 series EMU on a Fujikawa service at Shizuoka
Overview
Service type	Limited express
First service	1956 (semi express) 1966 (Express) 1995 (Limited express)
Current operator(s)	JR Central
Route
Line used	Tōkaidō Main Line, Minobu Line
Technical
Rolling stock	373 series EMU
Operating speed	110 km/h (70 mph) (max.)

The Fujikawa (ふじかわ) is a limited express train service in Japan operated by Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central), which runs between Shizuoka and Kōfu. Since October 1995, it has been branded as Wide View Fujikawa, following the introduction of new 373 series EMUs replacing the previous 165 series trains.

373 and 165 series EMUs at an open day at Shizuoka in October 1995

History

The Fujikawa (富士川) was introduced on 20 March 1956 as a "Semi express" train running between Fuji and Kōfu using 80 series 4-car EMUs. From 1 October 1964, this was extended to run to and from Shizuoka.

From 5 March 1966, the service between Shizuoka and Kōfu was upgraded to "Express" status. From 15 March 1972, the 80 series EMUs were replaced by 165 series EMUs displaced by the opening of the Sanyō Shinkansen.

From 1 October 1995, the service was upgraded to become a Limited express following introduction of new 373 series EMU trains. The name was also changed to ふじかわ in hiragana.^[1]

From 18 March 2007, all cars were made no-smoking.^[2]

References